James Hernandez, 9, and Isis Varrientos, 7, attended an immigration reform rally in Springfield, Ohio, with their parents July 27.

Written by

Julio Tellez
My Experience

F or most people a car breakdown is an inconvenience, but for me, my car breaking down on Interstate 70 in 2008 changed my life. When authorities responded, they discovered that I am an undocumented American and began a years-long court process as the country I love began proceedings to deport me.

My mother immigrated to the United States for the same reason as generations of Americans before her - to provide a better life for her family and one day see her children achieve the American dream. I was 8 when we left Mexico and settled in Ohio. I grew up here, and it is the only home I have ever known. My ...